Fundamentals of path analysis in the social sciences
R. Dennis Cook, Liliana Forzani

TL;DR
This paper discusses fundamental aspects of path analysis in social sciences, connecting it to mainline statistics literature to clarify foundational issues without advocating for specific methods.
Contribution
It provides a theoretical perspective on path modeling, addressing foundational issues and linking social science practices to broader statistical literature.
Findings
Highlights the theoretical basis of path analysis
Connects social science path modeling to mainstream statistics
Addresses foundational issues in path analysis
Abstract
Motivated by a recent series of diametrically opposed articles on the relative value of statistical methods for the analysis of path diagrams in the social sciences, we discuss from a primarily theoretical perspective selected fundamental aspects of path modeling and analysis based on a common re reflexive setting. Since there is a paucity of technical support evident in the debate, our aim is to connect it to mainline statistics literature and to address selected foundational issues that may help move the discourse. We do not intend to advocate for or against a particular method or analysis philosophy.
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Taxonomy
TopicsStatistical Methods and Applications · Sensory Analysis and Statistical Methods · Qualitative Comparative Analysis Research
